Israel Recalls Gaza Ceasefire Team After Hamas Demands

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recalled his Gaza ceasefire and hostage release negotiating team from talks in Doha, Qatar, to return to Israel for further consultations. This decision follows Hamas' new demands in response to the latest ceasefire proposal, including a clause preventing Israel from resuming hostilities if no agreement is reached within a 60-day truce, the opening of the Rafah crossing in both directions, changes to Israeli troop redeployment, and the release of 200 convicted terrorists and 2,000 Palestinians arrested since the war began. Despite recalling the team, senior Israeli officials emphasized that negotiations are ongoing but face serious differences and difficult decisions. Hamas indicated there is still a chance for an agreement, though further time is needed due to what it described as Israeli stalling. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office expressed appreciation for the efforts of mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and US special envoy Steve Witkoff in attempting to secure a breakthrough. The talks, which began on July 6, have been stalled for weeks amid a conflict that has resulted in over 59,000 Palestinian deaths since Israel broke a previous ceasefire in March.